The Rock, known commonly as Rock Springs, Wyoming, has been an interesting place to live for the last four months.  I have been here since early June working on a fish passage inventory project with the Rock Springs Bureau of Land Management.  I have learned quite a bit about all sorts of new things, had many memorable experiences, and abrubtly began my transition to post college life…

At work, I am responsible for checking stream/creek crossings for passability by fish.  Basicly I need to visit all locations where a road crosses a stream,perform a survey, and document the visit with photos.  If you have ever spent time in South Central Wyoming, you will understand just HOW MANY roads there really are. 

Aiko Weverka poses for a photo on the Little Sweetwater

 There are BLM roads that go everywhere and anywhere you want, most of which seem like they haven’t been traversed for hundreds of years.  Nonetheless, I am responsible for checking each crossing.  Each site is one of three crossing types; a culvert (big metal pipe that funnels stream under road), a low water crossing (the stream just runs across the road), or a bridge (you know what that is).  The survey I perform is very basic, taking measurements of stream width, culvert diameter, width of crossing, etc.  The hardest part of my job has proven to be actually FINDING where it is I need to go.  Quite a few locations are 20+ miles from the nearest paved road, and I rely on my trusty BLM maps to get me there.  Each day in the field is an adventure, and on rare occasions a misadventure (I have only got stuck and had to call in for help once…knock on wood).

I’m interested to see what becomes of my work, as Im told that my inventory will be the basis for deciding which sites need funding for repairs or replacement. 

Apart from work, living here has been both extraordinarily exciting, while sometimes exceptionally boring.  Being an avid fly fisherman, I have taken every opportunity possible to get out on the water.  Fly fishing here is incredible, to say the least.  I have also been introduced to hunting, which has become an exciting new hobby for me.  I got an antelope tag and went out with a few guys from work for my first big game hunt.  Since then I definately caught the hunting itch and have been out hunting for cottontail rabbits and grouse up in the mountains.  Bunnies taste good fried.

On the other hand, It has been a big shock to leave a life of familiarity to one of complete uncertainty.  Coming from college, a fantasy land of friendly people your own age, I am adjusting to life in the real world.  I suppose this transition occurs anywhere one goes after college, but for me,I made my transition in Rock Springs.  

Este es pancho

It has certainly been a period of growth for me as an individual.  Thus far, living in a mecca of great trout fishing and hunting has kept me busy enough to stay sane.